Egypt: Ashton (EU), NGO law still hinders capacity of donors

04/06/2013

It has to be in line with international standards

(ANSAmed) - BRUSSELS, JUNE 04 - EU Foreign Policy chief
Catherine Ashton underlined in a statement issued by her
spokesperson that the draft of the NGO law submitted by the
Egyptian Authorities to the Shoura Council ''still contains
elements that can unnecessarily constrain the work of NGOs in
Egypt and hinder our capacity as a foreign donor to support
their work'', highlighting that the draft law ''has to be in
line with international standards and obligations of Egypt.''
''The EU High Representative wishes to reiterate the EU's
firm commitment to supporting civil society in Egypt, which has
a crucial role to play in the ongoing transition towards
democracy'', affirmed the statement, recalling that the EU
engaged with the government and provided technical advice to the
authorities in the process of drafting the NGO Law in a spirit
of true partnership. ''The EU remains fully committed to working
closely with all stakeholders to ensure that an NGO law, fully
in line with best regional and international practice is adopted
in Egypt'', concluded the statement. (ANSAmed)